President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Saturday attended the funeral service of Mama Lydia Goshwe Yilwatda, mother of the All Progressives Congress (APC) National Chairman, Professor Nentawe Yilwatda, at the Church of Christ in Nations (COCIN) headquarters in Jos, Plateau State.

The President’s visit attracted large crowds as residents of Jos lined the streets with placards and banners, welcoming him and other high-profile dignitaries.

In his remarks at the service, President Tinubu commended the clergy for their role in promoting peace across the country. He urged Nigerians to embrace unity, tolerance, and mutual love irrespective of religious or ethnic differences.

“We believe in freedom of religion; what matters most is our love for one another. Hate is not an option. We must continue to build a Nigeria where peace and love thrive,” Tinubu said.

The President also praised Professor Yilwatda, describing him as “a good man” and reaffirmed his confidence in his leadership of the ruling party.

The event was graced by top government officials, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, members of the APC Governors’ Forum, and Plateau State Governor Caleb Mutfwang.

Akpabio, in his goodwill message, commended the collaboration between the PDP-led Plateau State government and the APC, noting that such bipartisan cooperation was a positive example for the nation.

Governor Mutfwang, in his remarks, thanked President Tinubu for honoring Plateau State by appointing their son as APC National Chairman. His appreciation was echoed by Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun, who spoke on behalf of the APC Governors’ Forum and reaffirmed their commitment to Nigeria’s progress and unity.

Following the service, President Tinubu was expected to hold a closed-door meeting with church leaders from across Northern Nigeria to discuss issues of peace and religious harmony.

Security was visibly heightened across Jos to ensure the President’s safe movement and the smooth conclusion of the visit.